Egyptian side, Pyramids FC got their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League group campaign off to a winning start on Friday evening after edging Congolese giants, TP Mazembe 1-0 at the June 30 Stadium.
The five-time African champions, who are looking at reclaiming the number one position on the continent were up against a side that is still working on establishing a strong presence on the continent like their Egyptian counterparts, Al Ahly and Zamalek.
From the onset, it was the hosts who pressed Mazembe into their half, launching attack after attack in search of the opener.
Even with seasoned attackers such as Fiston Mayele in their arsenal, Mazembe hardly troubled the disciplined defense of the Egyptian side who remained resolute throughout the tie.
With nothing to separate the two sides in the opening stanza, a few tactical changes from the hosts saw them coming back from the break with fresh ideas that were duly rewarded.
Minutes from the recess, South African striker, Fagrie Lakay found the back of the net in the 54th minute with a composed finish coming in from the left to fire the hosts into the lead in what was to become the only goal of the tie.
The important win gives coach Jaime Pacheco’s side a good start to a tough Group A that consists of newly crowned African Football League champions, Mamelodi Sundowns who are in action against Mauritanian champions and debutants, Nouadhibou on Sunday afternoon.
Up next for Mazembe will be a meeting with Sundowns next weekend, while Pyramids are away to Nouadhibou in Mauritania, with both matches taking place on Saturday, 02 December at 13h00 GMT.